Genesee News

State Rep. David Martin has drawn attention to recent polling data indicating public discontent with government interventions in the auto market. The survey by Center Square revealed that a majority of Michigan voters believe the government is overly promoting electric vehicles and should cease spending taxpayer money on EV subsidies.

According to Martin, the heavy-handed approach of government interference in the auto industry is not resonating with the public. He stated, “Customers aren’t buying enough electric vehicles to satisfy left-wing politicians, so the politicians are trying to use government mandates and handouts to boost lagging sales.” Martin emphasized the importance of allowing Michigan drivers to make their own choices regarding vehicle purchases.

The poll also revealed that half of likely voters feel that the Biden administration should reconsider its targets for electric vehicle sales. Despite this sentiment, the Biden administration recently introduced stringent emissions mandates that aim for 67% of new light- and medium-duty vehicle sales to be electric by 2032. This move, while praised by U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, has raised concerns for Rep. Martin regarding potential layoffs in Michigan's auto industry.

Martin expressed apprehension about the impact of the new emissions mandates on the local economy, stating, “I’m very concerned about the impact the new emissions mandates will have on our local economy.” With Michigan falling significantly short of Governor Whitmer’s goal of 2 million EVs by 2030, which currently stands at less than 35,000 registered EVs in the state, the challenges of transitioning to electric vehicles remain evident.